Valley Sport eNews - April 2026

Valley Sport eNews - 1 April 2026

March 31, 2026

Hi there! As we head into April, there’s plenty happening across the Valley Sport region - from exciting funding that will expand our Let Them Play program, to new learning opportunities supporting clubs and volunteers. This month’s update highlights the continued strength of our community, with programs, partnerships and events all working towards creating more inclusive, connected and sustainable sporting environments - from the Mountains to the Murray.

Growing Healthy Communities - Expanding Let Them Play

We’re incredibly excited to share that Valley Sport has been supported through VicHealth’s Growing Healthy Communities grants, backing 82 community-led initiatives across Victoria that help people eat well, move more and stay connected.

This funding is a fantastic boost for our region and will enable us to continue growing and expanding our Let Them Play program - creating more inclusive and supportive opportunities for children and young people, including those with additional needs, to experience sport in a way that works for them.

Through this support, we’re looking forward to:
✅ Reaching more communities across our region
✅ Supporting more families to access inclusive sport opportunities
✅ Continuing to build confidence, skills and connection through play

Programs like Let Them Play are all about removing barriers and creating positive first experiences in sport - and this investment allows us to take that impact even further.

A huge congratulations to all funded organisations doing incredible work across Victoria.

👀 Keep your eyes peeled - we’re excited to share more about what we’ll be delivering in this space soon!

From Conflict to Clarity – Supporting Clubs to Navigate Challenges

Conflict is a natural part of community sport - whether it’s between players, parents, volunteers or committee members. But with the right tools and confidence, clubs can manage challenges early and maintain a positive, supportive culture.

In a recent episode of the From the Mountains to the Murray podcast, we were joined by Jacqui McConville (JMX Solutions) to unpack one of the biggest challenges facing local clubs - conflict and dispute resolution. Jacqui shared practical, real-world insights into why conflicts arise, how they escalate, and what clubs can do to respond effectively and fairly.

The episode also provided a preview of our upcoming workshop, designed to take these conversations a step further.

🧭 Club Conflict Compass – Free Online Workshop

Building on the podcast, we’re inviting clubs to join our upcoming Club Conflict Compass Workshop - a practical online session to help club leaders navigate conflict and tricky conversations with clarity and confidence.

Delivered by Jacqui McConville, the workshop will cover:
✔ Understanding the difference between complaints, disputes and conflict
✔ When (and how) to intervene early
✔ Applying natural justice and procedural fairness
✔ Managing difficult conversations with confidence

Clubs will also receive a professionally developed Complaints & Grievance Policy, along with practical tools and guidance that can be implemented straight away.

📅 Monday 27 April 2026 ⏰ 6:00pm – 8:30pm
💻 Online Workshop

Whether you’ve already tuned into the podcast or are looking to build your knowledge further, this is a valuable opportunity to strengthen your club’s approach to conflict - helping create more connected, respectful and resilient sporting environments.

Our Valley Sport: From the Mountains to the Murray podcast continues to bring you real conversations with the people shaping community sport across our region. From inclusion and volunteering to leadership and local impact, each episode dives into the challenges and opportunities facing grassroots sport. If you care about stronger, more connected and more inclusive sporting communities, tune in and join the conversation.

Supporting Young People to Make Healthier Choices

Coaches and club leaders play a powerful role in shaping the experiences and decisions of young people in sport - and that includes conversations around vaping.

This free online session has been designed to equip clubs with the tools, knowledge and confidence to support young people and have meaningful, informed conversations around vaping and healthy choices.

This is a valuable opportunity for coaches, committee members and volunteers to build their confidence and better support the young people in their clubs.

📅 Monday 20 April 2026
⏰ 6:00pm – 7:00pm
💻 Online (via Teams)

Move Moira is back for 2026!

Move Moira – Active April 2026 is here, bringing a full calendar of activities designed to get the whole community moving.

From sporting clubs and seniors groups to yoga sessions, walking groups and even skateboarding - there’s something for everyone happening across the region.

Whether you’re keen to try something new or get back into a favourite activity, Active April is the perfect opportunity to get involved, stay active and connect with your community.

👉 Check out the full calendar of events: https://www.moira.vic.gov.au/Community/Move-Moira-Active-April-2026

Let’s get moving this April! 💪

Dindi Skills!! Come & Try Sessions Alexandra

Thinking about trying something new? These sessions are the perfect place to start.

Our FREE Dindi Skills!! Come & Try Sessions in Alexandra are designed for young people aged 12–25, offering a range of fun and welcoming activities to explore. Whether you try one session or jump into them all, it’s a great way to get active, meet new people and discover what you love.

Plus, if you find something you enjoy, special start-up offers are available to help you continue.

Head to the link below to view full details and register for each activity:

Monthly Wrap-Up:

As we wrap up a busy and rewarding month, it’s been fantastic to see community sport in action across the region - from the energy and inclusivity of the GV Harmony Cup to the hands-on support being delivered to clubs on the ground. These moments highlight the strength of our sporting communities and the incredible work of volunteers, partners and clubs in creating positive, connected and sustainable environments for all.


On the Ground: Supporting Stronger Clubs Across the Region

Our team has been out and about across the region, working alongside local clubs to strengthen governance, build capacity and support volunteers.

Project Officer Heath recently visited Mansfield Junior Football Club, spending time with the committee to work through the Game Plan Governance module. The session focused on strengthening leadership, planning and good governance - key foundations for a sustainable club future. The committee also got a first look at their brand new website, developed by Valley Sport through our Club Hub program, designed to streamline administration and make life easier for volunteers.

Meanwhile, Project Officer Sharna was on the road in Murrindindi, supporting clubs with their governance and planning needs. This included constitution review support with Eildon Bowling Club and a Game Plan Governance session with Alexandra Golf Club.

It’s always great to work alongside passionate and dedicated volunteers who are committed to keeping community sport strong.

Programs like Club Hub and Game Plan are all about helping clubs stay organised, compliant and ready for the future - providing practical tools, tailored support and real outcomes for local communities.

👉 Want to explore how Valley Sport can support your club with governance, planning or website development?
Reach out to the team at [email protected]


GV Harmony Cup 2026 – A Celebration of Inclusion and Community

Shepparton’s Deakin Reserve came alive in March as teams from across the region gathered for the 2026 GV Harmony Cup - a day that truly showcased the power of sport to bring people together.

With a strong focus on inclusion, connection and participation, the event delivered a fun-filled day enjoyed by all. Smiles, teamwork and great sportsmanship were on full display, highlighting the positive impact of community sport in creating welcoming environments for people of all abilities.

Congratulations to all teams and players who took part, with special mention to this year’s winners:
🏆 School Division – Banmira Renegades
🏆 Open Division – GWP – All Stars

We also acknowledge the fantastic efforts of all participating teams, whose enthusiasm and energy helped make the day such a success.

This event would not be possible without the support of our valued partners and supporters, including Greater Shepparton City Council, Cricket Victoria, SEDA Shepparton, Goulburn Valley Water and Jam Packed Coffee & Donuts.

A special thank you goes to Shepparton Youth Club United Cricket Club for their continued leadership and commitment to delivering the GV Harmony Cup each year, along with their dedicated sponsors.

Events like the GV Harmony Cup are a powerful reminder of how sport can create inclusive, connected communities - and we’re already looking forward to building on this success in 2027.

Together, we’re building stronger sport - from the Mountains to the Murray.

Sport & Recreation Victoria

Sporting Club Grants - Round 2

Amount: 5 funding categories available
CLOSES 07/04/2026

Moira Shire Council

Community Grants

Amount: see individual grants for details
Status: OPEN

Sport & Recreation Victoria

Emergency Sporting Equipment Grant Program

Amount: up to $2,000
Status: OPEN, closes 31/05/2026

AFL & Telstra

Telstra Footy Country Grants - Round 2

Amount: up to $20,000 (or as specified per category) will be considered
Status: OPEN, closes 02/04/2026

If you have any questions or would like assistance applying for any of the above grants, please don’t hesitate to get in contact.

Follow the Valley Sport Facebook page to keep up to date with resources and tips that will be useful for you and your club. We encourage you to share our posts with your members.

Valley Sport are always here to support your club and you can reach us via the platforms below:

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